Fossil Trace Golf Club
Golden, Colorado
A Jim Engh design in Golden where real dinosaur footprints and leaf fossils are embedded in exposed rock formations on several holes, Fossil Trace is one of the most unique golf courses in America. The creative layout against the Front Range foothills blends geological wonder with challenging golf and stunning mountain views.
History & Heritage
Fossil Trace opened in 2003, designed by Jim Engh on a former clay mine in Golden at the base of the Front Range foothills. The land contains 64-million-year-old trace fossils — triceratops footprints and prehistoric palm frond impressions are visible adjacent to playing surfaces, particularly holes 11-15. The only golf course in the world with visible dinosaur fossils integrated into the playing field.
Municipally owned by the City of Golden, the course name reverses "trace fossil," the paleontological term for the footprint impressions found on site. Golf Digest has included it among its most fun courses to play.
Signature Holes
Sandstone monoliths rise from the center of the fairway, forcing players to choose a route over or around them. The back of the sandstone wall displays trace fossils of palm fronds and triceratops footprints — one of the most photographed holes in the US.
What to Expect
The front nine is open and forgiving. The back nine (built within the old quarry) plays significantly tougher with deep bunkers (some 12 feet deep), exposed rock walls, and old quarrying equipment as decoration. Table Mountain provides a dramatic backdrop.
At 6,831 yards, accuracy matters more than distance. The fossil viewing areas around holes 11-15 are unique to golf anywhere in the world.
Playing Tips
On No. 12, know your carry distances before challenging the monoliths. The quarry back nine requires target golf. Winds funnel unpredictably through the foothills.
Highlights
- ✓ Real dinosaur fossils embedded in rock on course
- ✓ Jim Engh creative design against Front Range
- ✓ One of the most unique courses in America
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the fossils real?
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